Anne T. Henderson and Karen L. Mapp, are key voices in the national discussion on family engagement. In Part I, they address how to overcome obstacles in the parent-teacher relationship. First of two parts.

Anne T. Henderson and Karen L. Mapp are key voices in the national discussion on family engagement. With input from their colleagues, Henderson and Mapp discuss strategies for teachers, parents, and administrators who are looking to build family-school partnerships.Last of two parts.

In response to research showing a connection between parental involvement and student achievement, districts nationwide have launched initiatives to increase community engagement with schools. Yet many schools find it difficult to sustain parent involvement beyond the parent-teacher conference.

"For too long, schools have assigned parents the role of fundraiser and bake-sale booster. Let’s launch a national campaign that draws them more deeply into their children’s education,” say Bill Jackson & Leanna Landsmann.